EASTERN CAPE – World boxing champion Zolani Tete was shot and killed in a shooting incident at NU 17 in Mdantsane on the evening of Friday 21 August.

In a statement, Eastern Cape police said preliminary reports indicate the 38-year-old was arriving at his residence and waiting for the gate to open when two unknown armed suspects, wearing balaclavas, exited a vehicle and opened fire on him and his 27-year-old female passenger around 18:30.

Police in Inyibiba are investigating a case of murder and attempted murder.

Medical treatment

“In an attempt to escape the hail of bullets, the deceased drove his vehicle into the yard. He unfortunately succumbed to his injuries and was declared deceased on the scene,” the statement read.

The female passenger sustained multiple gunshot wounds and was rushed to a nearby hospital for medical treatment. She remains hospitalised.

Police spokesperson Brigadier Nobuntu Gantana confirmed the incident and said the investigation into the fatal incident continues.

No arrests

Tete was set to return to the ring as his four-year suspension from the sport had recently ended. 

A two-division champion, Tete was suspended following his world title fight against Jason Cunningham at Wembley in the United Kingdom on 2 July 2022 under an anti-doping rule. He had tested positive for a prohibited substance, specifically the anabolic steroid stanozolol.

“At this stage, no arrests have been made and the motive for the attack remains unknown. The suspects fled the scene and are yet to be apprehended,” the police said.

Members of the public who may have witnessed the incident or have any information that could assist in the investigation are urged to contact Crime Stop on 08600 10111 or the MySAPS App. All information will be treated with the strictest confidentiality.

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